Immigration enforcement activities across Los Angeles and Orange County in recent days have sparked protests and heightened fear among some immigrant families. This quick guide, based on information gathered from legal and advocacy groups, outlines their rights, what ICE can and can’t do, and what residents can do if agents come to their door.
What kind of warrants allow ICE agents to enter a home?
You do not have to open the doors unless agents present a judicial warrant that includes your full name and address and is signed by a judge or a magistrate.
An ICE Administrative Warrant (often labeled Form I-200 or I-205) is signed by an ICE officer, not a judge, and does not give agents the authority to enter your car or vehicle.
“Oftentimes ICE only carries administrative warrants, and these warrants are not reviewed by a judge, or not signed by a judge, and the standard for executing administrative warrant is much lower than a judicial warrant,” Stephanie Padilla, staff attorney at the ACLU Foundation of Southern California, said Tuesday.
According to ACLU, you can ask the officer to slide the warrant under the door or hold it against the window so you can review it without opening the door.
If the warrant is valid, you have the right to remain silent, according to the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California. ACLU suggests that if you choose to speak, step outside and close the door.
What are your rights if ICE comes to your home?
Citizens and noncitizens are protected by the U.S. Constitution.
- You have the right to remain silent.
- You do not have to open the door without a judicial warrant.
- You have the right to speak to an attorney before answering questions or signing anything.
- You have the right to refuse to sign documents without legal counsel.
- If ICE agents forcibly enter your home, do not resist physically, remain calm and silent, according to the Immigrant Defenders Law Center.
What should you do if ICE wants to talk to you?
- Stay calm. Do not run or interfere with officers.
- You can say: “I do not wish to speak to you.”
- If you’re outside your home, you can ask: “Am I being detained?” If the answer is no, then ask: “Am I free to leave?”
- Do not lie or present false documents, as this is considered a crime.
A resource for families: know-your-rights cards:
To support immigrant families, organizations like Los Angeles Unified School District have distributed red cards — small, wallet-sized, know-your-rights cards that explain what to do during an encounter with immigration enforcement.
The cards, created by the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), are available in multiple languages and can be used by both citizens and noncitizens.
How can families prepare in advance?
- Create a family preparedness plan (childcare, emergency contacts, etc.)
- Keep important documents (IDs, passports, medical info) in a safe, accessible place.
- Let neighbors or trusted friends know how to help in case someone is detained.
- Share know-your-rights materials with everyone in the household.
Where can you get help or legal assistance in Los Angeles?
- ACLU Southern California: contact local response networks in California: https://www.aclusocal.org/en/california-rapid-response-networks?social
- CHIRLA: (888) 624-4752
- Immigrant Defenders Law Center (ImmDef): (213) 833-8283
- LAUSD: call 1800-882-1341 for employee assistance service for education employees, open 24 hours